State health officials are urging residents to keep up on their vaccinations as Michigan sees an increase in cases of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services says between 2017 and 2019, the state averaged 596 whooping cough cases per year.
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As of Oct. 28, there have already been 830 confirmed or probable cases reported to the health department.
Pertussis is common across the U.S. and can cause serious illness in people of all ages, but is typically more severe for infants.
In 2024, the median age for whooping cough cases is 13.
Symptoms of whooping cough
Early symptoms of whooping cough are similar to those of a common cold.
It usually takes five to 10 days for symptoms to appear after someone is exposed, but can sometimes take longer.
Health officials say infants and young children may not cough after contracting pertussis but may experience a pause in their breathing. This can cause their skin to look a bluish color or cause shortness of breath.
Symptoms can later include “uncontrolled coughing fits,” according to health officials.
Preventing spread of whooping cough
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that infants, children, adolescents and women who are pregnant get the pertussis vaccine.
A dose of the vaccine is also recommended for anyone who didn’t receive it as a child.
“Vaccinations continue to be our top line of defense against the spread of pertussis,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. “With a declining rate of immunizations, we are unfortunately seeing a rise in pertussis and other vaccine preventable diseases statewide. We encourage all Michiganders to stay up to date with their immunization schedule."
